Plan Would Put Collinsville Dams Back To Work

[incorrect]

Agnes Moorehead wrote:

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The statewide Rails to Trails project was an incredibly short sighted waste of time & money. Sure, they're pretty & fun, but pretty & fun won't get you to work in the winter, or get goods to merchants in the energy strapped future. Which is "greener"? Getting trucks & cars off the road, or rollerblading by the river? But have no fear, I doubt they'll consider touching that scared cow until it becomes critical. Awhile back some joker had an article here about using the Trail to get to work-for who? Where? Maybe if you're an intrepid 25 year old whose job is two towns over. Otherwise, fugettaboutit!
I don't mean to attack you here JCB, but there are bigger concerns on the horizon than whether or not the Trails will be available for jogging, biking and walking yer dog. Like how are we going to move goods & people effectively when oil goes back up again.

You are ignoring the fact that the rails to trails exist for more than just recreation and the occasional commuter. First, they are a strong quality of life selling point for the region - the Collinsville section is routinely packed in the spring/summer/fall and you even get skiers in the winter. Second, they are an economic boost to small towns like collinsville whose businesses get lots of business from bikers during the summer months - just go and see all the bikers enjoying a drink at LaSalle.

Even if the trails were only for recreation, wouldn't that be enough? Many people enjoy having recreational assets within walking distance and want our towns to improve our quality of life.

[cantonite]

Reality Check wrote:

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Thank you for your insightful post. You should be on an advisory committee for this project. Which I think is the first thing Canton needs to do.

canton already has a committee - the temporary energy task force...you really need to do more research before you post...

[Reality Check]

incorrect wrote:

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FRWA and the FRCC (the river coordinating committee) are supporting the project. If the dams are built and fish ladders installed, it will be a huge benefit to the river ecosystem and outdoor recreation.

They will support it only if their needs are met. These groups are not willing to negotiate with any improvements along any stretch of the Farmington River. Talking from experience.